The A400M marks self-protection system milestone with release of decoy flares

Airbus Military’s A400M airlifter has successfully demonstrated the release of decoy flares, marking a key development step for this new-generation aircraft’s self-protection systems. The flares are designed to mislead heat-seeking anti-aircraft missiles, particularly surface-to-air missiles (SAM). They are a key element in the A400M’s self-protection systems due to the airlifter’s ability to operate from short and unpaved airstrips close to the scene of military action, where SAMS may be fielded by an enemy.